Visitors to this area may not be aware that areas of Squaw Valley are within avalanche hazard zones.  We often wake to the sound of the Squaw Valley Ski Patrol "throwing bombs"--setting off dynamite charges to activate known avalanche prone areas at the ski resort.  But did you know that portions of the residential area are also subject to avalanches?  In 1982, an avalanche destroyed one home and damaged others on Sandy Way--no one was injured, but the consequences could easily have been otherwise.

A study by Placer County investigated the avalanche threat to the residential areas of Squaw Valley and created the Potential Avalanche Hazard Area, or PAHA.   The study concluded that a number of homes in Squaw Valley are situated within the potential avalanche hazard area.  Below is the list of homes in the PAHA.  While Squaw Valley Fire Department does not have responsibility for avalanche safety within residential areas of Squaw Valley, we try to stay updated with the latest avalanche hazard forecast.  The U.S. Forest Service is active in avalanche forecasting and control and makes their information available to the fire department as well as the public. 

If you live in Squaw Valley, or plan on spending time here, check the list below to see if your home or rental is in the PAHA.  While it may not be possible to avoid the avalanche hazard zones within Squaw Valley, you should keep abreast of the level of avalanche danger as determined by avalanche experts.  We will make every attempt to post the avalanche danger as it changes.  For the most up to date warnings, visit the U.S. Forest Service's avalanche danger update web page

The following list was put together by Placer County.  A few properties originally on the list were removed by an avalanche expert, contracted by the property owner.  Contact the fire station for more information.

CHRISTY LANE

GRANITE CHIEF ROAD

LANNY LANE

NAVAJO COURT

SANDY WAY

SQUAW PEAK WAY

All Units

SQUAW SUMMIT

SQUAW VALLEY ROAD

TIGER TAIL ROAD

WASHOE DRIVE